Can Dogs Eat Turkey Tails? A Complete Guide for Dog Owners

Turkey tails are a popular snack around the holidays, but what about for our furry friends? Can dogs eat turkey tails too? Many dog owners find themselves asking this question come Thanksgiving time. While dogs can technically eat turkey tails, they may not be the healthiest choice. This article will take a deeper look at whether or not dogs should eat turkey tails, the potential dangers, and some safer alternative treats to give your pup.

What Are Turkey Tails?

Turkey tails are the tail feathers of turkeys along with the attached skin and fatty tissue. They don’t contain much meat, but are loaded with fat, bone, cartilage, and skin Some pet food manufacturers and pet stores sell turkey tails specifically marketed as dog treats or chews. However, not all experts agree turkey tails make a good snack for dogs

Are Turkey Tails Safe for Dogs to Eat?

According to veterinarians, turkey tails are probably not the best choice to feed dogs. Here’s why

• They are very high in fat – The primary component of turkey tails is fat and skin not meat. Too much fat can lead to pancreatitis, gastrointestinal upset, or obesity in dogs.

• Bones may pose a choking hazard – Turkey tails contain bones that could potentially splinter and pose a choking risk or cause damage to the digestive tract. Cooking makes bones more brittle and dangerous.

• Risk of salmonella – Like other raw poultry, raw turkey tails could be contaminated with salmonella bacteria. Dogs infected with salmonella can get diarrhea and vomiting.

So while turkey tails aren’t toxic to dogs, they are certainly not the healthiest snack. Most vets recommend avoiding feeding dogs turkey tails, even in moderation.

Potential Dangers of Feeding Dogs Turkey Tails

There are a few specific dangers associated with feeding turkey tails to dogs:

• Pancreatitis – The high fat content can inflame the pancreas and cause a painful and potentially life-threatening condition called pancreatitis. Dogs with pancreatitis need intensive vet care and fat is restricted lifelong.

• Gastrointestinal upset – Too much fat can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea in dogs. In some cases, medication may be needed to settle the stomach and control vomiting.

• Obesity – With mostly fat and little protein, turkey tails can quickly lead to weight gain in dogs. Obese dogs are prone to joint problems, diabetes, and more.

• Choking or bowel obstruction – Bones could splinter and puncture or block the esophagus, stomach or intestinal tract. Surgery may be required.

• Salmonella – Raw turkey may harbor this harmful bacteria. Salmonella causes vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration in dogs. Severe cases require hospitalization.

So while an occasional turkey tail given as a treat is unlikely to harm an otherwise healthy dog, regular feeding or consuming an entire turkey tail could result in some serious consequences. It’s best to avoid making turkey tails a regular part of a dog’s diet.

Healthier Alternatives to Turkey Tails for Dogs

Rather than feeding high fat turkey tails, consider some healthier snack options for dogs:

• Lean cooked turkey or chicken – Remove skin and bones first
• Carrots and green beans – Low calorie vegetables
• Apple slices – A sweet treat dogs love
• Peanut butter – Go easy, high in fat
• Frozen plain yogurt – Lower fat than ice cream
• Freeze dried turkey or chicken treats
• Dental chews – Promote oral health

When preparing your own holiday meal, set aside a few pieces of lean turkey meat or scraps veggies specifically for your pup. Avoid giving foods high in fat, seasoned with garlic or onions, or that contain bones.

How to Handle If Your Dog Eats a Turkey Tail

If your sneaky pup manages to swipe an unattended turkey tail, take a deep breath and monitor them closely. Look for signs of choking, vomiting, lethargy, or loss of appetite. Make sure they are passing stool normally. Withhold food for 24 hours to give their stomach a rest.

Contact your vet if you notice vomiting, diarrhea, decreased appetite, or other concerning symptoms after eating a turkey tail. They may recommend bringing your dog in for an examination and to run some diagnostic tests. Especially if your dog ate an entire turkey tail or multiple tails, the vet may induce vomiting and start IV fluids to flush out the GI tract. In severe cases, hospitalization and close monitoring may be required.

While one turkey tail may just result in some digestive upset, sustained feeding of turkey tails could have detrimental effects on your dog’s health. Be very judicious in allowing your dog these fatty treats.

Key Takeaways on Turkey Tails for Dogs

• Turkey tails are mostly fat, skin, bone, and cartilage – minimal meat
• Veterinarians recommend against feeding dogs turkey tails
• Too much fat puts dogs at risk of pancreatitis, GI upset, and obesity
• Bones could pose a choking hazard or damage the GI tract
• Make sure plenty of fresh water is available if your dog eats a turkey tail
• Monitor for vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite and contact your vet if concerned
• Lean cooked turkey meat, veggies and fruit make healthier dog treats

While turkey tails may seem like a fun seasonal treat, they really don’t offer any nutritional benefit for dogs. With so much fat and so little protein, turkey tails are not worth the risks. Your dog will be healthier and happier with some lean turkey meat or dog-friendly veggies instead! Avoid making turkey tails a part of your pup’s holiday feast.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are smoked turkey tails safe for dogs?

No, smoked turkey tails are still too high in fat to be a healthy choice for dogs. Smoking may make the bones more brittle and dangerous as well. It’s best to avoid feeding dogs any type of turkey tails, smoked or raw.

Can puppies eat turkey tails?

Turkey tails are not recommended for puppies under 1 year old. The fat content could cause digestive upset in puppies’ still developing digestive systems. Bones also pose a greater choking risk for small puppies.

How much turkey tail is safe for a dog?

Veterinarians recommend not feeding any amount of turkey tail to dogs, due to the high fat content. Even a small amount could cause stomach upset. The only exception would be the very occasional turkey tail given as a treat to an otherwise healthy large breed adult dog. But turkey meat or other treats are healthier.

Will turkey tails help my dog gain weight?

Yes, turkey tails will probably help your dog gain weight since they are so high in fat and calories with very little protein. However, this weight gain would be unhealthy for your dog, likely leading to obesity. It’s better to help underweight dogs gain weight gradually with high protein, lower fat foods. Always consult your vet for advice on your underweight dog’s diet.

Can I cook turkey tails for my dog?

It’s best not to feed turkey tails to dogs at all, even if they are cooked. The cooking process could make small bones more brittle and dangerous by making them more likely to splinter. Turkey tails are also still too high in fat for dogs when cooked. Feeding cooked turkey meat without bones or skin is safer if you want to add some turkey to your dog’s diet.

Are raw turkey tails good for dogs teeth?

While chewing on raw turkey tails may exercise a dog’s teeth and jaws, the risks outweigh any dental benefits. Raw turkey bones could fracture teeth or splinter causing mouth injuries. There are much safer foods and treats specifically designed to promote good canine dental health without these risks.